Extremely Fascinating Information About Fleece Fabric

Fabric is generally woven from natural fibers like wool, cotton, jute, etc. A recent inclusion is Fleece which has become popular, especially, in the woolen industry. HomeQuicks helps you gain some insight in what fleece fabric is all about.

Ashmeet Bagga

Last Updated: Feb 28, 2018

Did You Know?

In the year 1999, Time Magazine tagged Fleece fabric as, "One of the hundred great things of the 20th century."

Do you ever wonder what happens to the plastic bottles after you throw them? We all know, they are recycled to make plastic packets, containers, and maybe bottles again. They are also recycled to make fabrics that you wear, find it strange huh?

Normally, it takes around 25 plastic bottles to produce fleece fabric for an adult. It is an extensive process, but sources claim, it is warmer than any wool material. Fleece has very similar qualities like wool, but it is much lighter in weight.

It is picking up trend due to its lightweight and water resistant quality. Recycled plastic bottles and petroleum products are used to make this fabric, sounds easy right? It is the other way round, it is very complicated and time-consuming, but oh so worth it.

Let's get to know more about fleece.

How Fleece Conquered the World

✦ Before fleece, there was wool to keep you warm, but it had its own drawbacks. Besides being heavy, it soaks up water, and the end result is, your woolen wear stinks. In the 1990s, it was the wool from animals that kept you warm, but things changed. In 1979, Malden Mills introduced Polar Fleece.

✦ In 1906, Malden Mills started producing wool knit bathing suits and sweaters. They gained military contracts to produce uniforms during World War II; however, after the war ended, the industry saw a major shift in the world of fabrics. Polyesters, Nylon, and Spandex were invented. But to stay in the rat race, they started spinning plastics into yarn.

✦ Thus fleece made its debut in the fabric world. It helped pull out Malden Mills from near-bankruptcy when they introduced a new line of winter wear, thus, changing the existing trend of using wool. Contrary to the belief that the warm and cuddly blankets only come from sheep, fleece is a synthetic material produced from plastic bottles.

Facts About Fleece Fabric

✦ Not ItchyUnlike wool fabrics, fleece is not at all itchy. It feels so very soft and comfortable on the skin that it is time to say goodbye to rash creams.

✦ InexpensiveWe all dread the day when we go to purchase woolens because it is expensive. Well there is always a way out, fleece fabrics; they do not make a dent in your pockets. You can have the same warmth at a very low price.

✦ WarmIt keeps you extremely warm because it is a strong fabric which dries off quickly. It was basically manufactured for outdoor activities, but people use it for indoor purposes too, for e.g. blankets, quilts, etc.

✦ DurableIt's made from Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) , the same plastic which is used to make plastic bottles. These synthetic fibers are very unlikely to unravel or get spoiled like other fabrics.

✦ VeganIt is not made up of any animal's wool or fur, hence, make an apt choice for people who are against animal products. It is made up of man-made materials, and is a perfect substitute for woolen fabrics.

✦ LightweightWoolens take up most of the space in your luggage, but that's not the case with fleece fabrics. For one, it is very light in weight, and can be easily accommodated. It can be worn for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, etc.

✦ Water ResistantMany companies now produce diaper using this material because of its high resistance to water. It does not hold water, and is great for people who like to exercise in the gym. You wouldn't want to wear wet and heavy garments while working out, would you?

What Is It Used For?

✦ Beds for PetsIts use is just not limited to humans. Since the fabric is soft and gentle, you can use it as a bed for your pet. You can even make it personal by selecting the design and color. Since the fabric is durable, you can use it for many years.

✦ MittensMittens and hand gloves are perfect for winter season. Mittens made from fleece fabric will keep your hands really warm, and the fabric won't be rough against your skin. You can choose from a wide variety of colors.

✦ BeanieBeanie is considered stylish, plus it keeps your ears warm. Making and wearing a beanie out of fleece fabric can help keep your ears warm.

✦ BlanketsWe all love to feel snugly and warm while sleeping, especially in winters. Blankets made out of fleece fabric is an excellent way to keep yourself warm. Since it's so light in weight, you can even carry it while going for a picnic or bonfire.

✦ SweatpantsThis fabric is ideal for outdoor activities as it's water resistant. You can go for jogging, yoga, and any exercise without having to worry about getting soaked in sweat afterwards. Plus, it's ideal for long walks during winter as it will help you to stay warm.

Types of Fleece Fabric

✦ Faux-SherpaWith looks similar to wool, it makes for an excellent decorative item in clothes and to line coats.

✦ Blocks out WindIt is wind and water resistant. Outdoor apparels like sweatpants, sweatshirts, jogging suits are made from this material.

✦ BerberIt has a slightly lumpy texture and insulating properties similar to that of natural fur, and hence, is used as a lining in cloth manufacturing industry.

There you have it, your soda bottle is recycled into something useful. Scientific innovations have totally changed the look of the fabric and have given a product called fleece that can warm you in the most extreme conditions which wool cannot. So, next time, when you buy warm clothing, spare the sheep! Let them have their woolens, instead opt for the lightweight and warm fleece fabric.